What should a 20-year-old female undergo a gynecological examination

A 20-year-old female gynecological examination usually requires examination of external genitalia, vaginal secretions, cervix, pelvic ultrasound, and breast examination. Gynecological examination can help detect gynecological diseases early, and it is recommended to undergo a routine examination once a year.

1. External genital examination

External genital examination mainly observes the development of the external genitalia and checks for abnormal manifestations such as redness, swelling, ulcers, and growths. Doctors will evaluate the health status of the external genitalia through visual and palpation examinations, which are non-invasive and painless, and are the basic items of gynecological examinations. Diseases such as vulvitis and genital warts can be preliminarily detected through this examination.

2. Vaginal Secretion Examination

Vaginal secretion examination involves collecting vaginal secretion specimens to test for vaginal discharge cleanliness, pH value, and the presence of pathogen infection. This examination can help diagnose common vaginal infections such as bacterial vaginosis, vulvovaginal candidiasis, trichomonas vaginitis, etc. Sexual activity and vaginal flushing should be avoided 24 hours before the examination.

3. Cervical examination

Cervical examination includes cervical cytology examination and human papillomavirus testing. Cervical cytology examination can screen for cervical cancer and precancerous lesions, and it is recommended that women who have sexual activity undergo regular check ups. Doctors will use specialized brushes to collect cervical exfoliated cells, which may cause slight discomfort but are usually tolerable.

4. Pelvic ultrasound examination

Pelvic ultrasound examination can be performed through the abdominal or vaginal route to evaluate the internal reproductive structures such as the uterus and ovaries. This non-invasive examination can detect common gynecological diseases such as uterine fibroids, ovarian cysts, endometriosis, etc. Before the examination, it is necessary to fill the bladder appropriately to obtain clear images.

5. Breast examination

Breast examination includes visual examination, palpation and breast ultrasound examination, which can early detect benign diseases such as breast hyperplasia, breast fibroadenoma and breast cancer. 20-year-old women are recommended to undergo breast self-examination every month and professional breast examination once a year. Breast ultrasound has no radiation and is suitable for breast screening in young women.

20-year-old women should avoid their menstrual period before undergoing gynecological examinations, and refrain from sexual activity, vaginal medication, and flushing 24-48 hours before the examination. Pay attention to keeping the external genitalia clean and dry, choose cotton breathable underwear, and avoid excessive cleaning that can damage the vaginal microenvironment. Establishing a healthy lifestyle, maintaining a regular schedule and moderate exercise can help maintain gynecological health. If any abnormalities are found during the examination, seek medical attention promptly and follow the doctor's advice for further diagnosis and treatment.